Country in My Genes
| Company type | Record label |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Headquarters | Berry Hill , United States |
| Products | Music recordings |
"Country in My Genes" is a track composed by Larry Cordle, Betty Key, and Larry Shell, performed by American country musician Loretta Lynn. Released in 2000 through Audium and Koch Records, it was the lead single from Lynn's album Still Country. This release marked Lynn's first single issuance since the mid-1990s and her initial charting entry during that timeframe. The song garnered favorable critical acclaim.
Background and content
Following the passing of her husband, Oliver "Doolittle" Lynn, in 1996, "Country in My Genes" was among Loretta Lynn's early recordings after resuming her career. After returning to live performances, Lynn recorded this song, which was inspired by a dialogue she had during a concert. Songwriters Larry Cordle, Betty Key, and Larry Shell crafted the piece based on Lynn’s stage remarks about her deep connection to country heritage. In an interview with Billboard, Lynn explained that the lyrics were drawn from conversations she shared with audiences during her shows.
The recording session took place in spring 2000 at Scruggs Sound Studio located in Berry Hill, Tennessee, under the production of Randy Scruggs. This project marked Lynn’s first collaboration with Scruggs, who also produced the entire Still Country album.
Release and reception
Critics responded positively to "Country in My Genes." Dan MacIntosh, after witnessing a live performance by Lynn, commended the song for advocating a revival of classic country music elements: "'Country In My Genes,' with its commentary on contemporary country trends, serves as testimony against the decline on Music Row." Zac Johnson from Allmusic emphasized the track’s fusion of traditional country style with modern-day significance when reviewing the Still Country album.
Release and chart performance
Issued on June 16, 2000, as the premier single from Still Country, "Country in My Genes" was distributed by Audium Records and Koch Records. The single release featured Lynn’s original version of "I'm a Honky Tonk Girl" as a tribute to her 40-year career milestone. According to Billboard, the song enjoyed robust radio airplay; John Malone of WSM remarked, "Our listeners are responding enthusiastically. It truly embodies Loretta."
This single represented Lynn’s first release since the 1993 duet "Silver Threads and Golden Needles," and was her 78th entry on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It also marked her first solo appearance on the charts since 1988's "Who Was That Stranger." The track peaked at number 72 on the chart in September 2000, remaining for one week. A music video accompanied the release, featuring prominent country artists including Crystal Gayle, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire, Brad Paisley, Randy Scruggs, and Chely Wright.
Track listing
- CD single
- "I'm a Honky Tonk Girl" – 2:14
- A message from Loretta Lynn – 0:32
- "Country in My Genes" – 3:10
Chart performance
Template:Single chart| Chart (2000) | Peak position |
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